CHARLESTON AIR FORCE BASE, S.C. –
What a great time to be a member of Team Charleston!
This weekend's 2008 "Wings Over Charleston" Air Expo culminates a year of hard work to prepare our base ... we are ready to showcase our mission to the public we help protect.
Saturday, we're hosting a world-class air show for more than 125,000 guests. Whether you are an active-duty member of the 437th Airlift Wing, a Citizen Airman from the 315th Airlift Wing, a Department of Defense civilian or a spouse, you should take pride in being associated with Air Expo 2008.
Our pride is rooted in the professionalism we display around the clock, every single day. I am pleased for this opportunity to highlight your dedication, patriotism and abilities to our surrounding community. This air show is our chance to show thousands of guests how great a family we are, as well as how critical our mission is to the nation. It's an opportunity for citizens to gain better understanding of Air Force missions and military capabilities, as well as the skills and professionalism of our people. We've accomplished amazing things in the Global War on Terrorism throughout these past few years; don't miss this chance to share our celebration with the public and your friends and relatives.
Remember, many of our guests tomorrow have not had the opportunity to meet, talk to or watch a member of the military up close and personal. Every Airman, in uniform or not, leaves a lasting impression on the people they meet. At this year's Air Expo, it's not just the Thunderbirds and Army Golden Knights who are demonstrating military professionalism -- we all participate in that role.
On- or off-duty ... you represent the Air Force. Every blue-suiter is a safety officer, each a "litter-getter," each another set of eyes and ears alert for potential terrorist activities. In the unlikely event we should have an accident or incident that requires immediate response, those assigned to duty will lead and help point the way. The rest of us can be just as helpful by showing the crowd how to follow. Active and mature followership is a key part of being a Wingman.
You are a member of the world's most powerful Air Force and an important part of the two best wings in Air Mobility and Air Force Reserve Command. We're going to "wow" the public with the awesome flying demonstrations, but you are the real story. What you do every day delivers freedom and saves lives around the world. No other country in the world can accomplish the mobility mission as well as ours and YOU are the reason why. If you don't have just a little swagger to your walk then get one ... you've earned it. Be humble ... but be proud. Share your stories; our guests want to hear them. It's going to be a great Air Force day!
Team Charleston - Take the Fight to the Enemy!